Interlachen Travelers: French Polynesia, an Ideal Paradise

French Polynesia is an exquisite destination. Made up of dozens of islands—including Bora Bora, Tahiti, and Moorea—this ideal paradise is spread across a wide swath of the South Pacific between South America and Australia. A visit here will guarantee lagoons gleaming in amazing shades of cobalt blue and emerald green, the aroma of luscious tropical flowers, and mountains rising dramatically above the sea.

“French Polynesia is in the same time zone as Hawaii,” says Interlachen travel agent Ann Gray. “But it is more quiet and slower paced. You’ll find year around sun and warm air and water temperatures. And, the crystal clear water and abundant sea life make for perfect diving and snorkeling.”

 Weddings of non-French nationals are legal on any of the French Polynesian islands. Bora Bora has the most upscale resorts and is considered one of the most romantic islands in the world. Moorea is magical, with its eight volcanic ridges described as the “second dorsal fin of the fish that became the island of Tahiti” in Polynesian legend.

French and Tahitian are the official languages, but English is spoken and understood in tourist areas. You’ll find that island residents are friendly but more reserved at first. Twelve percent of the population is Chinese and many of the businesses are Chinese-owned. Dining options on the islands are numerous from Chinese to French, American to Japanese, and Polynesian to Italian.

The warm lagoon waters of many of the French Polynesian islands are perfect in temperature, density, salinity, light and climate for the cultivation of black pearls. Tahiti is the best place to shop for black pearls which range in size, shape and colors from dark black to shades of green, blue, bronze, and even pink.

In addition to pearls, you can shop for handcrafted products made on the French Polynesian islands such as stone carvings; wooden bowls, platters and sculptures carved from native woods; hats, purses and mats woven from coconut leaves; handmade quilts crafted from traditional island matriarch designs; and brightly colored cloth wrappings.

Getting to this paradise takes about eight hours from Los Angeles. Travel between islands can be done by catamaran, ferry, or with the major inter-island airline Air Tahiti (which flies newer, twin-engine, jet-prop aircraft). Most resorts use private boats to transport guests.

There are few bargains to be found in accommodations, dining, activities and transportation. Says Ann, “For those who can afford a vacation to the islands of French Polynesia, you won’t be disappointed. It is truly the classic South Pacific experience.”

To learn more about traveling to French Polynesia contact Ann Gray, a qualified tourist board French Polynesia specialist. Ann can be reached at 952-925-2940 or at ann@interlachentravel.com.

Interesting Facts about French Polynesia

  • Most fishing is done with spear guns.
  • It is the birthplace of surfing.
  • There are two golf courses; one in Tahiti and one in Moorea.
  • Currency is the French Pacific Franc; most credit cards are accepted.
  • Haggling over prices in markets and stores is not customary.
  • Mormon is a major religion on Moorea.
  • There are no homeless people in French Polynesia.
  • There are no snakes on Moorea.
  • The movie “Couples Retreat” with Vince Vaughn was filmed in Bora Bora.